ACA Staffing Summit

We are seeking speakers with great staffing content to present at the 2025/2026 Staffing Summit. To submit a session proposal, please complete the form linked below. 

October 28, 2025: Recruit & Hire

Proposals period is closed.

April 28, 2026: Train & Retain

Submit a Proposal

Proposals for the April 28 Summit will open November 1 and be accepted through March 5. 

Some topics we are seeking:

• Innovative & Engaging Staff Training 
• Training Partial Contract or Late Hires 
• New Trends in Training Topics
• Staff Appreciation
• Staff Culture
• Engagement & Retention 

Register Now

For the best value, we highly recommend the Full Package, which includes:

• The October event, focused on recruiting and hiring
• The April event, centered on staff training and retention
• Exclusive access to the January bonus micro event

Please note: the January event is only available to Full Package registrants. Full package registration available through November 25.

Michael Brandwein — April Keynote

Michael is an internationally acclaimed and award-winning expert on youth development, education, recreation, and leadership. He’s presented on six of the seven continents and in all 50 states of the U.S.

He wrote and presented three EMMY® award-winning television programs on developing great children that have been broadcast on PBS stations throughout the U.S. Michael has written six best-selling books on leading and training adults to work with young people.

He is a frequent national and state keynoter and professional development speaker for hundreds of youth organizations, schools, early childhood, recreation programs, out-of-school, and other groups serving young people.

Michael served on the national board of directors of the American Camp Association and has received two national awards for his work training the leadership and staff of programs throughout the world. Learn more about Michael and his work here. 

Dan Durbin — October Keynote

For Dan Durbin, leadership isn’t just a skill—it’s a calling. As the founder of Durbin Leadership, Dan helps organizations develop leaders who are fully engaged, mission-focused, and ready to grow. His mantra, “Mission First, People Always,” reflects lessons learned from 11 years as a U.S. Army officer—including a 16-month deployment in Iraq.

Dan has led teams in military, corporate, and nonprofit settings, including serving as COO of a multi-state nonprofit organization. Today, he partners with leaders across industries to help them navigate challenges, inspire their teams, and create healthy cultures.
When he’s not coaching leaders, you’ll find Dan hiking, camping, or running marathons with his wife CB and their three children. He believes leadership starts at home and loves helping others create spaces where people can flourish. Learn more about Dan Durbin at Dan Durbin Leadership.

Dr. Patrice Buckner-Jackson — January Keynote

Known in her community as Dr. PBJ, gives professionals the tools to beat burnout so they can love their careers again.

Dr. PBJ is an educator of almost 25 years and an Executive Coach for more than 10 years. She holds a doctoral degree in Education Administration, served in executive leadership at colleges and universities, and facilitates leadership training as a faculty member for the Center for Creative Leadership.  Dr. Jackson worked in higher education at many levels, from student assistant to President’s Cabinet and is the recipient of several professional awards and accolades.  

Dr. Jackson founded EduCare Training and Consulting, LLC out of a purpose pouring in to those who pour out so much. Much of her work is specifically focused on equipping and refreshing educators.  Compassionate work can carry a high price tag:  your mind, body, spirit and relationships may be in distress as you serve the needs of others.  Dr. Jackson leads her community to serve well without paying an ultimate price.

Currently, Dr. PBJ serves as creator and host of the Disrupting Burnout podcast as well as the founder and facilitator of The W.E.L. where Women in Education Leadership draw what they need and share what they have learned.

Follow Dr. PBJ on Instagram @drpatricebucknerjackson for #aspoonfulofpbj to encourage your soul.  

Summit Schedule

View the April Program

Please note all times are EST

Tuesday, April 28

• 11:00am-11:30am — Collaboration Hub 1
• 11:50am-1:00pm — Welcome & Keynote
• 1:10pm-2:00pm — Educational Session One
• 2:20pm-3:10pm — Education Session Two
• 3:30pm-4:20pm — Educational Session Three
• 4:30pm-5:00pm — Collaboration Hub 2
• 4:30pm-5:00pm — E-Commerce Session

April program will be available late February 2026.

Tuesday, October 28

• 11:00am-11:30am — Collaboration Hub 1
• 11:50am-1:00pm — Welcome & Keynote
• 1:10pm-2:00pm — Educational Session One
• 2:20pm-3:10pm — Education Session Two
• 3:30pm-4:20pm — Educational Session Three
• 4:30pm-5:00pm — Collaboration Hub 2
• 4:30pm-5:00pm — E-Commerce Session

View October Full Program

Wednesday, January 28 (Micro Event)

• 11:50am-1:00pm — Welcome & Keynote
• 1:10pm-1:50pm — Collaboration Hub
• 2:00pm-3:00pm — Panel Session

What people are saying...

"I attended the Staffing Summit last year for the first time and I feel more prepared for this summer than any summer before" 

"The variety of content for these sessions was terrific and very well thought out! I gained so much knowledge and have come away with an extensive action plan. I feel so much better and like I'll be able to connect with and manage Gen Z."

"I'm grateful the sessions were recorded and available after the event, it was so hard to choose what to attend because there were so many amazing options!" 

"This is my third year attending, and I have seen my staffing improve each year. I feel more equipped to handle any staff challenges." 

"This conference always makes me feel "seen" and leaves me with a sense of community - we're in this together."